Varieties of Singularity
Mark Sainsbury
Abstract
What is it for a thought to be singular? The chapter argues that there is no single answer. Singularity in thought is associated with a variety of non-equivalent features. For example, some argue that the object of a singular thought should be something with which we are acquainted, or should involve the exercise of a mental file; or the thought should essentially “involve” its object, or refer to it rigidly. The chapter claims that the main task should be to examine the relations between these various features; there is little interest in trying to determine what a “real” singular thought is.
Topics & Concepts
SingularityObject (grammar)Variety (cybernetics)Task (project management)EpistemologyMathematicsPhilosophyPsychologyComputer scienceArtificial intelligenceLinguisticsMathematical analysisEconomicsManagementPain Management and Placebo EffectPhilosophy and Theoretical Science